Linebacker Brian Cushing of the Houston Texans has been suspended 10 games the use of performance enhancing drugs. Ian Rapoport reported the news via Twitter today.
In ’10, #Texans LB Brian Cushing was suspended 4 gms for PEDs. The 10-game hit is for his 2nd. A 3rd suspension would be for at least 2 yrs
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 13, 2017
Cushing has been punished for PED use by the NFL in the past. He was suspended for 4 games back in 2010 for PED use. Rapoport also reported that if Cushing gets suspended a third time for PED use, it could be for a very long time.
In ’10, #Texans LB Brian Cushing was suspended 4 gms for PEDs. The 10-game hit is for his 2nd. A 3rd suspension would be for at least 2 yrs
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 13, 2017
Crushing’s attorney released this statement:
“Brian Cushing regretfully announces he has been suspended for 10 games commencing on September 13., 2017. In so doing, he is aware of the negative impact he has had on his team and most important his fans. It is with the deepest remorse that he humbly apologizes to his fans, teammates and coaches. After consulting with his attorney and agent, he felt that rather than dragging the appellate process out, this would be the best way to proceed.”?
Cushing has been a key piece in the Texans defense. The organization selected Cushing with the 15th overall pick in the 2009 NFL draft. He ended his rookie season tied with Ray Lewis with 133 combined tackles, leading the AFC.
This suspension hurts the Texans. Their first game of the season did not go so well. The Texans lost 29-7 to the Jacksonville Jaguars at home and allowed rookie running back Leonard Fournette to rush for 100 yards and a touchdown in his first pro career game.
10 games is a large step up from 4, especially with 7 years between the two incidents. If Cushing is smart, he will lay off the PEDs and focus on being the solid defensive player he can be. The Texans offense is still searching for its identity. The defense has usually been solid and needs to stay consistent if the Texans have any hope of making the playoffs.
